2018 Renault Alaskan – interior Exterior and Drive

The new Renault Alaskan ute was unveiled overnight prior to going on sale in Colombia and the rest of Latin America.

Based on the Nissan NP300 Navara, the Alaskan features new styling up front and the option of a twin-turbo diesel engine in some markets. As previewed by last year’s concept car, the biggest differences between the Alaskan and the Navara occur at the front, where the Renault ute features a new bonnet, grille, headlights, front bumpers, and front fenders. Changes elsewhere are a little more subtle, with the Alaskan featuring its own set of 16- and 18-inch alloy wheels. At the back, there’s a large Renault badge on the tailgate to complement the reworked tail-light graphics.

The interior is pretty much lifted straight from the Navara, except, of course, for the branding and a slightly different steering wheel.

Top-spec models can be had with a 5.0-inch multi-function display in the instrument cluster, surround-view camera system, keyless entry, push-button start, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation, electric seat adjustment, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. A number of body configurations are available, including single-cab, double-cab, and cab-chassis. There will also be short and long tray beds, as well as narrow- and wide-body configurations.

Under the skin, the Alaskan’s drivetrain options look to be shared with its Nissan counterpart.

The headline powertrain is a 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine in either 119kW and 142kW spec. This engine features a smaller turbo that works primarily at low engine speeds, with the larger unit kicking in at higher revs. Other engines available in the Alaskan include a 119kW 2.5-litre petrol engine, and 119kW and 142kW 2.5-litre turbo-diesels. Available transmission options extend to a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic. Buyers can choose between rear- or four-wheel-drive, with the latter available with high- and low-range modes, and an electronic limited-slip differential. Available driver assistance technologies include hill start assistance, hill descent control, brake assist, and electronic stability control.

At its highest, the Alaskan has a ground clearance of 230mm and a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes. Engine, body and technology options will vary from market to market.

Australia The Alaskan will go on sale initially in Colombia, with other South American countries following on soon after. Indications are that the ute will also be sold in Africa and Europe. In May, Justin Hocevar, Renault Australia’s managing director, told CarAdvice that there was “a very high level probability” that the Alaskan will be available down under. If the Alaskan does make the journey to Australia, it probably won’t enter showrooms until late 2017 at the earliest. Read More http://www.caradvice.com.au/458934/2017-renault-alaskan-unveiled-australian-arm-keen-for-local-launch/?&ca_rd=route